Basenji

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Basenji Breed

A poised, elegant hunting dog from Africa, the Basenji is smoothly muscular and moves with ease and agility. He is lightly built and possesses a wrinkled head and a high, curled tail. The Basenji is commonly known as the "barkless dog," but when excited, he makes a noise that sounds like a yodel. Colors include chestnut red, pure black or brindle -- all with white feet, chest and tail tip.

Prized for its hunting prowess in its native Central Africa, the first specimens of the Basenji were brought from the source of the Nile as presents to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The breed wasn’t successfully introduced in England until 1937, and the first litter of Basenji puppies raised to maturity in America was in 1941. In Africa, the natives use him for pointing, retrieving and driving game into nets.

The Basenji is known for his fastidious habits and being full of play and activity. Because he often worked out of sight of hunters, he can tend to be independent and aloof and prefers to meet strangers on his own terms. Grooming is minimal due to his short coat, which lacks the typical "doggy" odor.

Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1944.

Ideal size ranges from 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and 22 to 24 pounds.